Who Should Consider Taking Suppressive Therapy
Continuous suppressive treatment is particularly useful for people who are experiencing frequent or troublesome episodes of genital herpes.
If you are constantly worried about having another bout of herpes, you may find that suppressive treatment allows you to be less focused on the herpes virus. This emotional break can provide you with time to adjust to living with this infection. You may also find professional support helpful.
If you know that stress triggers a recurrence and you are experiencing significant stress, or your outbreaks tend to occur during specific situations such as holidays, then a course of suppressive therapy may be appropriate on such occasions.
The use of antiviral medicines on a daily basis as suppressive therapy can help reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to a non-infected partner.
Also Check: How Many Types Of Herpes Are There
Dos And Donts For Herpes Outbreaks
Before going into the treatment options for herpes, its important to note a few important dos and donts to keep in mind when an outbreak occurs.
Things you should or should not do when you have an oral herpes outbreak include:
- Do wash your hands after any time you touch a sore.
- Do get rid of your toothbrush and start using a new one.
- Do protect your lips with lip balm.
- Do take steps to reduce stress, which can worsen outbreaks.
- Dont share cups, utensils, towels, or lip balms.
- Dont kiss while a sore is present.
- Dont try to pop or drain cold sores.
Things you should or should not do when you have a genital herpes outbreak include:
- Do wash your hands after any time you touch a sore.
- Do take steps to reduce stress, which can worsen outbreaks.
- Do wear cotton underwear and loose clothing.
- Do keep your genital area clean and dry except when showering.
- Dont take baths or use hot tubs.
- Dont have sex since the virus has a higher risk of transmission.
- Dont try to pop or drain genital sores.
Over The Counter Treatment For Genital Herpes Outbreaks
Youve probably tried over-the-counter creams and ointments for genital herpes outbreaks before. While these products can provide temporary relief, they are not the best choice for the long-term treatment of the disease. Some of these treatments may prolong the duration of the outbreak. Here are some tips on treating your outbreaks and avoiding over-the-counter creams and ointments.
For an initial outbreak, take acyclovir. This antiviral medication prevents the virus from growing and causing herpes outbreaks. While it cant fully eliminate the virus, it will stop its replication. The medication is most effective when taken within 48 hours of an outbreak. Valacyclovir, also known as Valtrex, is an antiviral medication that interferes with DNA replication of the herpes virus. The FDA has approved Valacyclovir for Genital Herpes Cure, which is more potent than acyclovir. Valacyclovir can be taken less frequently and lasts longer than acyclovir.
You should also keep your genital area clean and dry. Sitting in warm water for a few minutes can help relieve the pain and itching associated with a cold sore. You can use a bathtub or a special sitz bath designed for this purpose. After the first year, recurrences will be less severe. In addition to over-the-counter treatments, you should avoid having sex with other people during an outbreak. You should also keep the area dry and avoid wearing tight clothing or revealing underwear.
Recommended Reading: Can You Date Someone With Herpes
How To Place An Order
In order for you to place an order, please click below and fill in the online consultation you will then be given a choice of products before clinically assessed by one of our GMC registered doctors.
What is genital herpes?
Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus that is easily passed on by sexual contact. Unfortunately, once you have contracted herpes there is no known way to cure it. However, genital herpes can be managed and suppressed effectively if you use the right genital herpes treatment which you can buy online.
Herpes simplex virus type 2 causes the STI, while herpes simplex virus type 1 causes cold sore herpes, which is most likely to break out on the lips or face. This condition can be treated with aciclovir tablets and valaciclovir tablets. While type 2 herpes simplex virus usually causes genital herpes and type 1 affects the lips or face, type 1 herpes can also cause genital herpes due to more people having oral sex.
People who have herpes often report experiencing 4 or 5 different outbreaks a year, so make sure you have measures in place to keep these periods of time as comfortable as possible.
What are the symptoms of genital herpes?
When you experience herpes symptoms, the first episode is likely to be the worst. This may include:
- Fever or flu-like symptoms
After this initial outbreak, genital herpes symptoms are likely to become less severe as your body builds up more immunity to the herpes virus.
Is There Anything I Can Do To Relieve The Symptoms Myself
In some women, genital herpes blisters cause pain when urinating . Many of them find it soothing to pee while sitting in warm, shallow water . You can do this using special tubs that fit into toilet bowls. They are available at a reasonable price, for instance from pharmacies or on the internet. Its best not to use soaps or bath additives because they can irritate the affected area even more. Other things you can do to avoid irritating it further include wearing loose-fitting clothes and underwear made out of fabrics that have a smooth surface.
Painkillers such as ibuprofen are an option if the blisters become very painful.
Topical antiviral treatments such as creams or ointments dont provide any relief, but they can increase the risk of viral resistance. Experts advise against using topical treatments for genital herpes.
Read Also: Can I Put Cold Sore Cream On Genital Herpes
Read Also: Does Herpes Show Up Right Away
Treatment For Oral Herpes
The antiviral medications available in pill form have been specifically developed for the treatment of genital herpes. However, it is not uncommon for healthcare providers to prescribe the antiviral drugs to those who have frequent or severe outbreaks of oral herpes.
A recent study found valacyclovir to be effective for treating oral herpes in a one-day treatment of 2 grams taken at the first sign of a cold sore, and then again about 12 hours later.
There are two topical antiviral medications prescribed for the treatment of oral HSV symptoms: acyclovir ointment and penciclovir cream. Both work to speed up the healing process and reduce the viral activity. These topical drugs are put directly on the lesions themselves, but can also be used at the onset of prodrome.
Other topical treatments for oral herpes are available over-the-counter , but are not antiviral compounds like acyclovir and penciclovir. Some also contain ingredients that numb the area and induce temporary relief from the discomfort of an outbreak. Unfortunately, some OTC treatments may actually delay the healing time of symptoms because they can further irritate the area with repeated applications. There is only one OTC FDA-approved cream, called Abreva®, which has been clinically proven to help speed the healing process.
How Is Herpes Diagnosed
The herpes virus is almost always spread through sexual intercourse, oral sex, or kissing. Although sometimes HSV-1 can spread via shared lip balm, utensils, or other items that come in contact with saliva.
In most cases, healthcare providers can diagnose herpes with a visual examination and by discussing various symptoms. If thereâs any doubt, they can take a viral culture to confirm, which involves lab analysis of a swab or scraping.
âIf the patient has no history of herpes simplex and is a new patient, I always do a viral culture,â says , MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of 5th Avenue Aesthetics. âAlso, if I am suspicious of HSV-2 or if it is an immunocompromised patient, I will order a viral culture. I start treatment right away before results come back. These results can take one week and it is best to start treatment early.â
But again, symptoms arenât always present. Fortunately, itâs also possible to diagnose HSV with a blood test. Your body produces antibodies to combat viruses, and doctors can use a blood sample to detect the specific antibodies that fight the herpes simplex virus.
A primary care physician can perform the examinations and tests necessary for an accurate diagnosis. However, sexual health clinics offer similar, reliable services.
Recommended Reading: How Long Do Genital Herpes Sores Take To Heal
How Herpes Is Spread
You are most likely to spread herpes when you have a herpes sore or blister. But many people have time periods when they can still spread the virus even though they dont have symptoms.
And some people spread the infection because they dont realize that they have a herpes sore. Or they may have different symptoms, such as painful urination, that they dont realize are part of an outbreak.
You May Like: How To Prevent Genital Herpes Breakouts
How Long Does Genital Herpes Last
As there is no cure for genital herpes, the virus stays in the body even after the signs of the infection have gone away.
Outbreaks themselves can last for up to two to three weeks, and the initial outbreak, often considered the most severe, could last up to four weeks. After the sores develop, they break open and fluid is released. When the sores scab over, the healing process is underway. Blisters do not typically leave any scars.
Subsequent outbreaks tend to become less severe and generally pass within a few days. Antiviral medication helps to speed up the recovery time, shorten the length of an outbreak, as well as helping to ease symptoms.
Also Check: Can You Test For Herpes
What Else Can I Do To Help With A Genital Herpes Outbreak
As well as taking medication to help with symptoms, you can also try:
- using an anaesthetic gel to numb your skin and ease any pain
- soaking the affected area with plain or salt water
- applying Vaseline to the affected area
- drinking plenty of fluids
- wearing loose clothing
- taking pain relief medications, like paracetamol or ibuprofen
The symptoms of herpes outbreaks will usually go away by themselves within 10 days as your immune system fights the infection on its own. You might find the sores painful during that time, so medication can help you by clearing up the infection more quickly.
If youd like to speak to one of our doctors about your symptoms, you can book a telephone consultation. Theyll be able to provide personalised advice on how to cope with genital herpes.
Read Also: What Medication Is Used To Treat Herpes
Why You Should Go To A Sexual Health Clinic
You can see a GP, but theyâll probably refer you to a sexual health clinic if they think you might have genital herpes.
Sexual health clinics treat problems with the genitals and urine system.
Many sexual health clinics offer a walk-in service, where you do not need an appointment.
Theyâll often get test results quicker than GP practices and you do not have to pay a prescription fee for treatment.
Read Also: What Test Tests For Herpes
What Is Herpes Simplex
Herpes simplex is a virus that causes skin infections. The infection lasts your lifetime, and it causes painful or itchy sores and blisters that come and go. Herpes simplex virus typically doesnt cause severe problems. But it can be dangerous in infants and people with weakened immune systems. There are two types of herpes simplex:
- Herpes simplex 1 tends to affect your mouth or face. It causes cold sores. HSV-1 spreads through contact with saliva .
- Herpes simplex 2 is a sexually transmitted disease . It causes sores on skin that comes in contact with the genitals of an infected person.
Sometimes a herpes infection can affect other parts of your body, such as your eyes or other parts of your skin.
How Over The Counter Antibiotics Help To Get Rid Of Chlamydia
Just went for accurate Chlamydia swab test and want to know about possible OTC for it? Here are some helpful tips for you. The existence of antibiotics has brought a new era in a medical world. Antibiotics are been used in a clinical practice which has allowed or helps in saving millions of lives, that is if been prescribed by a medical expert who knows the pros and cons of the disease. Although antibiotics are been prescribed and are always taken to preventive measures without further considerations. This now decreases the number of resistant, making bacterial strains reduce along side with it.
Over the counter has helped a lot in reducing the stress in rushing to hospitals or clinics in a far distance. The only good thing there is just know the right prescription for it and the problem is solved. So with over the counter antibiotics, it has helped so far by in various ways:
Also Check: When Is The Best Time To Get Tested For Herpes
How Do You Keep Herpes Dormant
Therefore, to prevent this infection from reactivating, it is important to take measures to avoid getting sick. This means practicing good hygiene. Showering regularly, washing hands, and avoiding contact with bodily excretions can keep someone healthy. Keep Herpes Simplex Virus dormant by practicing good hygiene.
One Option For Ongoing Therapy: Taking Drugs Regularly
Some people with genital herpes choose to take antiviral medication daily to reduce the number of symptom outbreaks they have. In some cases, daily therapy prevents outbreaks completely.
Numerous studies over the years have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of all three of the approved antivirals used to treat genital herpes.
Studies have also shown that daily antiviral therapy reduces the rate of transmission from an HSV-2 infected person to an uninfected partner of the opposite sex.
Daily therapy also lowers the odds of infecting other people if you have multiple sex partners or if you are a man who has sex with men.
The drugs work both for people who have had herpes symptoms and for those whose blood tests show they have an HSV-2 infection but who have never had symptoms.
Some people choose to take antiviral drugs only as needed, for outbreaks that occur after the first one. For this to work, you need to start taking the medicine within one day of sores cropping up or during the time period that comes before some outbreaks.
During the prodrome, you may feel
- Burning in the area where the virus first entered your body
- Itching or tingling in that area
- Pain in your back, buttocks, thighs, or knees
Your doctor will probably give you a prescription you can fill and keep handy for timely use, and tell you to start taking the drugs just as soon as symptoms begin.
Recommended Reading: What Is Prescribed For Herpes
Read Also: How Do You Get Herpes Type 2
What Are The Treatments For Cold Sores
You can’t cure HSV or a cold sore, but you can alleviate the pain it causes by avoiding spicy or acidic foods, applying ice, and using over-the-counter remedies. Look for medicines that contain numbing agents such as phenol and menthol to reduce cracking and soften scabs. Abreva is an over-the-counter topical remedy used to help speed healing and minimize pain from a cold sore. It must be used many times a day to speed the healing.
If your cold sore is especially painful or irritating, your doctor may prescribe an anesthetic gel to alleviate pain or an antiviral oral medication to speed healing or prevent recurrence. The antiviral medicines available for treatment include acyclovir , famciclovir , and valacyclovir . These oral medications are more effective when started within the first 48 hours of the outbreak. Valacyclovir is more expensive, but is better absorbed in the digestive tract and therefore more reliable. Acyclovir and another antiviral medication called penciclovir also come in a topical form.
Cold sores can become complicated by a bacterial infection, so it is also important to keep them clean by washing gently with soap and water as needed.
How Can I Get An Acyclovir Prescription
You can make an appointment with a doctor or healthcare provider to get a prescription for acyclovir. If it is your first herpes breakout, you should see a doctor to ensure you have the right diagnosis.
Alternatively, you can book anonline health assessment with a medical advisor at an online pharmacy. This is a convenient way to buy acyclovir to manage recurring symptoms or suppress symptoms in the long-term. Your online pharmacist will help you determine the best course of treatment.
You wont need a prescription from a doctor to buy acyclovir online. Acyclovir tablets start at $8.50 for 15 tablets.
Don’t Miss: How To Prevent Lip Herpes Outbreaks
How Is It Treated
Although there is no cure, medicine can relieve pain and itching and help sores heal faster. If you have a lot of outbreaks, you may take medicine every day to limit the number of outbreaks.
After the first outbreak, some people have just a few more outbreaks over their lifetime, while others may have 4 to 6 outbreaks a year. Usually the number of outbreaks decreases after a few years.
Treatment works best if it is started as soon as possible after the start of an outbreak. This is especially true for outbreaks that come back again and again.
Finding out that you have herpes may cause you to feel bad about yourself or about sex. Counselling or a support group may help you feel better.